With the upcoming Hajj season, UAE doctors stress the importance of vaccinations for pilgrims. Given the high risk of infectious disease spread due to the close proximity of millions of attendees, it is mandatory for pilgrims to get vaccinated according to guidelines provided by the Saudi health authorities. Pilgrims are required to complete their vaccinations at least 10 days before travelling.
COVID-19 Vaccination
COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory for all Hajj pilgrims. Travelers need to have had two doses of COVID-19 vaccines such as Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Oxford-AstraZeneca, Covovax, Nuvaxovid, Sinopharm, Sinovac, Covaxin, or Sputnik-V. Those taking the Janssen vaccine require only one dose. In addition to vaccination, other recommended precautions include frequent hand washing, wearing face masks in crowded places, and maintaining distance from those who appear ill.
Influenza and Other Vaccinations
Getting an annual flu vaccine is also highly recommended before attending Hajj, as influenza can spread rapidly in crowded environments. Moreover, Saudi authorities have also recommended the flu vaccine for certain high-risk groups. Yellow Fever and Polio vaccines are also advised for those coming from countries where these diseases are endemic.
News Summary:
- UAE doctors highlight the importance of vaccinations for Hajj pilgrims, in light of the high risk of infectious disease spread at the event.
- COVID-19 vaccination is a mandatory requirement, with pilgrims needing to have had two shots of an approved vaccine at least ten days before travelling.
- Influenza, Yellow Fever, and Polio vaccines are also recommended for certain groups or individuals travelling from specific countries
